Transmission of COVID virus from human to mink, as well as from mink to human revealed by whole genome sequencing

In the Netherlands, whole genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks in 16 mink farms revealed virus transmission between humans and mink as well as mink to humans.

The virus was first introduced by humans, the study authors say, and has since evolved. “Further research on mink and other mustelid species is important to understand whether these species are in danger of becoming a SARS-CoV-2 reservoir,” they write.

Although several animals have been shown to be susceptible to SARS-CoV-2, the zoonotic origin of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic is still unknown.

In the Netherlands, the virus was first diagnosed in two mink farms in late April 2020. In response, the Dutch national response system for zoonotic diseases was activated and an extensive surveillance system was established. .

Bas B. Oude Munnink et al. conducted an in-depth survey of the top 16 infected mink farms in the Netherlands. Their analysis combined SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics, whole genome sequencing, and in-depth interviews with agricultural workers. By the end of June, 66 out of 97 (68%) of the mink residents, employees and / or herd contacts examined had evidence of SARS-CoV-2 infection. Analysis of the mink virus genomes in these herds revealed a diversity of sequences.

These large groups of infection were man-made COVID-19 cases with viruses carrying the D614G mutation, the authors say. The sequencing also revealed that some people were infected with strains of the virus with an animal sequence signature, providing evidence of animal-to-human transmission. Further analyzes indicated no impact on people living in the immediate vicinity of mink farms.

The authors write: “It is imperative that the fur manufacturing and trading sector does not become a reservoir for the future SARS-CoV-2 spillover for humans.”

Reference: “Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 in mink farms between humans and mink and back to humans” by Bas B. Oude Munnink, Reina S. Sikkema, David F. Nieuwenhuijse, Robert Jan Molenaar, Emmanuelle Munger, Richard Molenkamp, ​​Arco van der Spek, Paulien Tolsma, Ariene Rietveld, Miranda Brouwer, Noortje Bouwmeester-Vincken, Frank Harders, Renate Hakze-van der Honing, Marjolein CA Wegdam-Blans, Ruth J. Bouwstra, Corine GeurtsvanKessel, Annemiek A. van der Eijk, Francisca C. Velkers, Lidwien AM Smit, Arjan Stegeman, Wim HM van der Poel and Marion PG Koopmans, 10 November 2020, Science.
DOI: 10.1126 / science.abe5901